Eco Oil-ternatives: Innovating Biorefining Solutions for a Sustainable Future

Ergo Eco Solutions Inc. is pioneering a sustainable transformation in the petrochemical market through its innovative use of upcycled food waste. The global dependency on finite, polluting hydrocarbons has created an urgent need for clean, renewable alternatives. Ergo addresses this challenge by developing and producing eco-friendly Oil-ternative™ products derived from Waste Cooking Oil (WCO). This approach not only reduces environmental harm but also creates value from waste. Currently profitable through its biodiesel and refined feedstock sales, Ergo is expanding operations by constructing a cutting-edge Biorefining facility featuring a flexible manufacturing processes, enabling Ergo to adapt to market demands and produce multiple high-value green products, such as bio-lubricants, agricultural inputs, and construction release agents. Unlike conventional biodiesel-only production, Ergo’s innovative approach mirrors petroleum refineries, extracting maximum value from WCO by diversifying product lines. This strategy not only reduces vulnerability to volatile fuel markets but also enhances profitability and scalability. The project promises to create sustainable economic growth, generate green jobs, and contribute to Canada’s greenhouse gas reduction goals.
With the global petrochemical market projected to grow to $1 trillion USD by 2025, and alternative fuels expected to exceed $1.3 trillion USD by 2030, Ergo is well-positioned to disrupt the industry. Annual revenue at the site is expected to grow from the current $1.6M to over $7M within five to seven years, and Ergo also has plans to expand the successful engineering and business model to other sites within Canada and globally through IP development and licensing. Ergo is also anticipating growth in employment opportunities resulting in 10+ new jobs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Robert McMillin

Student:

Partner:

Ergo Eco Solutions

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

Lambton College of Applied Arts and Technology

Program: